Victorian commuters are now able to use phones as Myki, but there's a catch

Lucy Mae Beers

Thursday, 28 March 2019 2:41 am

The new system will be turned on this morning, but iPhone users shouldn't get too excited.Image: AAP

Instead of reaching for their plastic Myki cards on Thursday morning, many Victorians will be able to tap onto the state's public transport system with their smartphone.

But there's a catch.

Only Android phones that have the Google Pay application installed can use the new system, with iPhone users forced to continue reaching for their smartcards as Apple and Myki try to reach a deal to allow the technology on the devices.

Instead of reaching for their Myki cards to pay for their public transport commute, many Victorians will now be able to use their phone.Image: Myki

The introduction of the technology, using Google Pay, follows a successful trial with 1000 transport workers in May 2018.

Commuters will be able to top their Myki accounts within the app as well as check their balance.

"Mobile myki will make topping up and touching on quicker, and travelling easier," Public Transport Minister Melissa Horne said last Sunday.

Passengers will be able to choose from full price, concession, child or senior fares.